Are Ballistic Shields Legal?

In most cases, Ballistic shields (bulletproof shields) are totally legal to buy and own in the USA, UK, Australia and the UK. You can order ballistic shields online easily and own them without a licence in most circumstances.

With occurrences of violence and increasing tensions becoming more common in many parts of the world, items of body armour such as ballistic shields are becoming increasingly crucial for law enforcement, military personnel and the security industry. Even if you aren’t employed in a security or defence sector, you might be wondering whether you can use a ballistic shield to protect yourself, your family and your home.

While standard riot shields offer effective protection against melee attacks, thrown projectiles and non-lethal weapons, ballistic shields can also provide a good level of protection against firearms. Naturally, as ballistic shields are typically used in more extreme situations than riot shields, the legality of ballistic shields for civilian use can be complex in nations such as the US, UK, Australia and Canada.

In this article, we delve into the rules and regulations surrounding the possession and use of ballistic shields in all the aforementioned countries. If you have any questions regarding the law on body armour in your specific city or state, don’t hesitate to call us. At The Survival Island, our survival experts are always on hand to offer impartial advice.

Are Ballistic Shields Legal in the US?

At the federal level, citizens of the USA can legally buy and own ballistic shields for home protection and self-defence. In most cases, only individuals aged 18 or over can purchase body armour such as ballistic and riot shields. If you have prior criminal convictions, you may not be able to purchase a ballistic shield, or you may have to meet additional requirements before being able to buy one. However, while legal at the federal level, the legality of owning and using ballistic shields can vary by state and city. In most cases, ballistic shields can only be bought through a face-to-face transaction.

When is it Illegal to use a Ballistic Shield in the US?

In the US, it is illegal to use a ballistic shield as an offensive weapon, to intimidate, coerce or threaten, or to impersonate a police officer. It’s also illegal to carry a ballistic shield at an unlawful assembly. You may be faced with criminal charges if your use of a ballistic shield is perceived to escalate tensions or violence.

Which US States Impose Restrictions on Ballistic Shields for Civilians?

Some US states and cities impose additional restrictions on the civilian use of ballistic shields that are enforced at the local rather than federal level. For example, only people who are employed in an eligible professional can buy, own and use ballistic shields in New York. In the Kansas city of Topeka, it’s illegal to carry and use a ballistic shield at rallies, parades, protests, and other public gatherings.

Are Ballistic Shields Legal in Canada?

The legality of the civilian use of ballistic shields varies by state in Canada. There are currently very few restrictions on buying and owning any form of body armour in Nova Scotia, Ontario and Quebec, provided you possess a valid firearms licence under the Firearms Act.

In Alberta, you’ll need a permit to purchase body armour such as ballistic shields, though some people – such as police officers and military personnel – are exempt.

In British Colombia and Manitoba, you need a valid PAL/RPAL licence or permit to possess a ballistic shield (breaking the law can result in up to six months in jail and a fine not exceeding CAD 10,000).

Are Ballistic Shields Legal in Australia?

All forms of ballistic body armour, including ballistic shields, are categorised as Category E Firearms under the Australian Firearms Act. While this means that any resident of Australia can apply for a permit to use body armour and ballistic shields, only law enforcement, military personnel and security industry employees are accepted in most cases.

In some cases, you may be able to use non-ballistic shields (riot shields) during Airsoft and Gelsoft competitions. Check the rules and regulations at your local venue to find out what kind of armour you can use. Don’t forget to check your state’s laws before carrying body armour in public.

Are Ballistic Shields Legal in the UK?

In the UK, using a ballistic shield for home protection or self-defence purposes is legal under the Offensive Weapons Act 1996 and the Firearms Act 1968. However, while you can own and defend yourself with a ballistic shield, you should be aware that improper use of your shield could result in brush-ins with the law. Ballistic shields cannot be used to intimidate others, nor can they be used as an offensive weapon. Many police officers have faced legal consequences in high-profile cases as a result of using shields as weapons at unlawful public gatherings.

While not technically illegal, the civilian and even police use of ballistic shields in the UK remains controversial. A significant portion of the UK population think ballistic and riot shields can make riots worse by encouraging people to throw projectiles. Using a ballistic shield could garner unwanted attention or suspicion.

Want to Maximise Your Home Protection with a Bulletproof Shield?

If you work for the police or military, you can usually own and use a ballistic shield legally whether you live in the US, Canada, UK or Australia. In many cases, those nations also allow members of the public to use ballistic shields and body armour for purposes including self-defence and home protection. No matter where you live or what your profession is, you can never use your shield as an offensive weapon or to intimidate or coerce others. If you still have questions that need answering before purchasing a shield, don’t hesitate to contact us.

At The Survival Island store, we’re a highly experienced team of wilderness and survival experts that’s commitment to helping our customers, who range from concerned citizens to military personnel, expand their resources in the fields of survival and personal independence. Contact us today to learn more about the features and benefits of our ballistic shields, where and when their use is legal, and how they can help you bolster your security capabilities.